Houses would be inspected to ensure they meet standards such as for insulation. Photo: SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
The Green Party has pledged to set up a system of warrants of fitness and star ratings for all rental houses if it is part of the next government
Co-leader Metiria Turei announced the party's key housing policy at the Salvation Army offices in Manukau this morning.
She said the party would introduce a voluntary warrant of fitness scheme for rental accommodation to become compulsory in 2017.
Assessors employed by local councils would inspect the rental properties once every three years to ensure they meet basic standards, such as insulation, heating and weather-tightness.
''We need to remember that landlords are operating a business, and in most areas of business in New Zealand there are regulations about the quality of the product," Ms Turei said.
The Greens would also limit rent increases to once every 12 months and ensure tenants had the right of renewal on any tenancy.
Ms Turei said the plan would give almost 1.5 million renters a more stable, secure base for their lives.